Marcella Salas, the owner of a small-batch salsa company and food truck, made a significant decision to expand her business into a full-service restaurant. She dedicated time to learning from the team at Vanguard Hospitality, a local restaurant group. With her mother, she opened BibiSol earlier this year at 219 S. Phillips Ave. in The Carpenter in downtown Sioux Falls. The restaurant focuses on handmade tortillas, using a traditional nixtamal technique to create various dishes like tamales, tacos, and sopes. By leveraging strong relationships with local producers, BibiSol has thrived since its opening. Now, Vanguard Hospitality's chief operating officer and local producer advocate, Tim Meagher, went behind the scenes with Salas to gain a closer look at her approach to local restaurant ownership.

Uncover the Success Story of BibiSol's Local Restaurant Journey

Learning from Vanguard Hospitality

Marcella Salas recognized the importance of learning from experts in the restaurant industry. She spent valuable time with the team at Vanguard Hospitality, absorbing their knowledge and insights. This collaboration allowed her to gain a deeper understanding of the restaurant business and prepare for the expansion of her own venture. Through this partnership, she was able to acquire valuable skills and strategies that would shape the future of BibiSol.The team at Vanguard Hospitality shared their experiences and best practices with Salas. They provided guidance on various aspects such as menu planning, operational management, and customer service. Salas was able to learn from their successes and avoid common pitfalls, setting BibiSol on a path to success from the very beginning.

Handmade Tortillas and Local Producers

One of the key features of BibiSol is its focus on handmade tortillas. Using a traditional nixtamal technique, the restaurant creates tortillas that are not only delicious but also showcase the local produce. By leveraging strong relationships with local producers, BibiSol ensures the freshness and quality of its ingredients.The use of local producers not only adds to the authenticity of the dishes but also supports the local economy. It allows BibiSol to offer unique and flavorful products that cannot be found elsewhere. The collaboration with local producers has become a cornerstone of BibiSol's success, attracting customers who appreciate the local and sustainable approach.

California-inspired Steak Dish on the Cocktail Bar Menu

In addition to its traditional Mexican dishes, BibiSol has introduced a California-inspired steak dish on its cocktail bar menu. This unique addition showcases the restaurant's ability to adapt and innovate while still staying true to its roots.The California-inspired steak dish combines the rich flavors of the West Coast with the authenticity of Mexican cuisine. It features high-quality cuts of steak prepared with special marinades and served with a variety of complementary sides. The addition of this dish has expanded BibiSol's customer base and attracted those looking for a more diverse dining experience.The cocktail bar menu at BibiSol complements the food offerings perfectly. With a wide selection of handcrafted cocktails, customers can enjoy a memorable dining experience that combines great food and drinks. The attention to detail in both the food and drink menus has contributed to the overall success of the restaurant.